Bhitarkanika National Park, located in Odisha, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary famous for its mangrove forests, saltwater crocodiles, and rich biodiversity. Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, serves as a major gateway for travelers heading to this natural wonder. This route is popular among nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and weekend travelers seeking a refreshing escape from city life.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Kolkata to Bhitarkanika, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed information on routes, travel time, costs, and insider tips to plan your journey confidently and enjoy the scenic beauty en route.

Getting from Kolkata to Bhitarkanika – Main Options

Train

Train travel is a convenient and economical option for reaching Bhitarkanika from Kolkata, especially for those who prefer a relaxed journey. While there is no direct train to Bhitarkanika, nearby railway stations connect well with Kolkata.

• Nearest railway stations:

  Bhadrak and Dhamra are the closest major stations to Bhitarkanika. Trains from Kolkata to Bhadrak take around 6 to 7 hours, covering approximately 250 km.

• Train options and ticket costs:

  Several express trains like the Shalimar–Puri Express and Howrah–Puri Express run daily. Ticket prices range from ₹150 (sleeper class) to ₹700 (AC 3-tier), booked via IRCTC.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  From Bhadrak or Dhamra station, local buses or taxis are available to reach Bhitarkanika, about 40 to 50 km away. Pre-booked cabs are recommended for convenience.

• Travel tips:

  Book tickets at least 2 weeks in advance during peak tourist season (October to March). Trains can get crowded on weekends and holidays.

• Scenic route:

  The train journey passes through rural Odisha landscapes, offering glimpses of paddy fields and small villages.

Bus

Buses are a popular choice for budget travelers and those seeking direct road access to Bhitarkanika. Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) and private operators run services connecting Kolkata to Bhitarkanika region.

• Bus routes:

  Direct buses run from Kolkata to Kendrapara or Chandbali, towns near Bhitarkanika. The journey covers around 300 km via NH16 and NH316.

• Travel time and fares:

  The trip takes 7 to 9 hours depending on traffic. Ticket prices range from ₹400 to ₹700 for AC and non-AC buses.

• Bus types and comfort:

  Volvo and deluxe buses offer comfortable seating and onboard amenities. Non-AC buses are cheaper but less comfortable for long journeys.

• Frequency:

  Several buses depart daily from Kolkata’s Esplanade and Howrah bus terminals, mostly in the evening and early morning.

• Road conditions and stops:

  The highways are generally in good condition with multiple rest stops. Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains due to possible roadblocks.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Kolkata to Bhitarkanika offers flexibility and the chance to explore Odisha’s countryside at your own pace. The route is well-connected by national highways.

• Route details:

  The fastest route is via NH16 and NH316, covering around 300 km in approximately 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic.

• Road conditions:

  The highways are mostly four-lane and well-maintained, with toll plazas en route. Fuel stations and eateries are available at regular intervals.

• Navigation tips:

  Use GPS apps like Google Maps for real-time traffic updates. Avoid night driving in rural stretches due to limited street lighting.

• Permits and parking:

  No special permits are required. Bhitarkanika has designated parking areas near the park entrance.

• Scenic stops:

  Consider stopping at Chandbali port town or the Brahmani river banks for local snacks and photo opportunities.

Flight

Although Bhitarkanika does not have an airport, flying part of the way can save time. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar.

• Flight details:

  Daily flights operate between Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport and Bhubaneswar, with a flight time of about 1 hour 15 minutes.

• From Bhubaneswar to Bhitarkanika:

  Bhitarkanika is approximately 160 km from Bhubaneswar, accessible by taxi or bus. The road journey takes around 4 to 5 hours.

• Taxi and bus options:

  Prepaid taxis and Ola cabs are available at Bhubaneswar airport. Odisha State buses also connect Bhubaneswar to Kendrapara district.

• Cost considerations:

  Flight tickets range from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 depending on booking time. Road travel from Bhubaneswar adds to overall time and cost.

• Best for:

  Travelers short on time or combining Bhitarkanika with other Odisha destinations like Puri and Konark.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary helps first-time travelers plan their journey from Kolkata to Bhitarkanika efficiently.

• Book your train or bus tickets early:

  Use IRCTC for trains or official bus portals for OSRTC buses. Booking 2 weeks in advance ensures availability, especially during peak season.

• Reach your departure point early:

  Arrive at Howrah Station or Esplanade Bus Terminal at least 30 minutes before departure to avoid last-minute rush and find your platform or bus bay easily.

• Pack essentials for the journey:

  Carry water, snacks, and light blankets for comfort. Odisha’s weather can be humid, so dress in breathable fabrics.

• Arrange last-mile transport in advance:

  Pre-book taxis from Bhadrak or Bhubaneswar to Bhitarkanika to avoid waiting or inflated fares on arrival.

• Plan your arrival time:

  Aim to reach Bhitarkanika during daylight hours for easier navigation and park entry, which closes by evening.

• Confirm accommodation beforehand:

  Book stays in Kendrapara or nearby villages to ensure a hassle-free experience after arrival.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Avoid traveling alone at night on rural roads. Use prepaid taxis or trusted cab services like Ola or Uber where available.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and light snacks. Try local Odia cuisine at rest stops but avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

• Booking strategy:

  Use official portals like IRCTC and OSRTC to avoid scams. For taxis, use app-based services or hotel recommendations.

• Local commute:

  Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are common in nearby towns. Negotiate fares before boarding.

• Luggage advice:

  Pack light as some last-mile transport options have limited space. Keep valuables secure and carry a basic first-aid kit.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid monsoon months (July to September) due to flooding and slippery roads. Summer months can be hot and humid, so plan accordingly.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to travel from Kolkata to Bhitarkanika is during the cooler months from October to March. This period offers pleasant weather and better wildlife sightings.

Monsoon season brings heavy rains that can disrupt road and train travel, while summer can be uncomfortably hot for long journeys.

• Avoid traveling during major festivals like Durga Puja or Diwali when trains and roads are crowded.

• Early morning departures help avoid city traffic congestion in Kolkata.

• Check weather forecasts before traveling during transitional seasons to avoid unexpected delays.

• Plan your return trip during daylight to ensure safe road conditions.

Arrival at Bhitarkanika & What to Expect

Upon arrival near Bhitarkanika, travelers will find a serene environment dominated by mangrove forests and waterways. The park entrance is accessible via Kendrapara district, where local guides and boat operators are available for wildlife tours.

Local transport includes shared jeeps, auto-rickshaws, and hired taxis. Nearby towns like Chandbali and Garh Panchkot offer basic accommodation and eateries. It is advisable to stay close to the park entrance for early morning safaris.

Conclusion

Among all options, traveling by train to Bhadrak followed by a taxi to Bhitarkanika offers a balance of cost, comfort, and convenience. This route allows travelers to enjoy scenic views and avoid road traffic, making it ideal for most visitors.

With proper planning and advance bookings, your journey from Kolkata to Bhitarkanika can be smooth and enjoyable. Embrace the natural beauty and wildlife of Odisha confidently, knowing you have all the travel details covered.